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Two years ago when Mirek Topolanek was first elected to head the country's main opposition party, the right-of-centre Civic Democrats, he was an untried entity. Many observers felt the Czech senator would have a difficult time filling the shoes of his well-known and charismatic predecessor Vaclav Klaus. But since then Mirek Topolanek has proven he's the man for the job, and from his perspective things have gone swimmingly. At least, so far.

Those are the footsteps, voices and rattling chains of a memorable trio who visited children all across the Czech Republic on Sunday night. This was the annual celebration of St. Nicholas's Day or "Mikulas", commemorating the third century saint who was persecuted for his beliefs as Bishop of Myra in today's Turkey. St. Nicholas was known for his zealous defense and advancing of Christianity, and a host of holy deeds, such as helping sailors and fishermen in distress, ensuring people had enough food in times of famine and defending widows, children

What's the price tag on a Merry Christmas? Very high indeed, if you look at the Czech Republic. The shopping frenzy is in full swing - and once again Czechs are spending more than they can afford.

In recent months a mysterious animal has been spotted around woodlands in the Beskydy Mountains in Moravia. More skeptical locals say it must be a dog or fox, while others believe there is evidence it is something altogether more exotic - a puma.

The 2005 World Exposition in Aichi, Japan is expected to be something of a revelation. The organizers have moved away from the traditional concept of "trademark" goods and have chosen a theme that will inspire participants to make a unique and imaginative presentation: Nature's Wisdom. This week, Daniela Lazarova got a small preview of what the Czech Republic will bring to Expo 2005.

Beginning Monday, Prague will host the 10th annual Martinu Festival, a series of classical music dedicated to one of the best-known 20th Century Czech composers, Bohuslav Martinu.

Mental health-care professionals are looking to transform the Czech Republic's psychiatric care system on two fronts: Firstly, by launching a campaign to de-stigmatise diseases like schizophrenia and depression, and secondly by moving towards community based care.

The museum devoted to the Czech philosopher, theologian and writer Jan Amos Comenius in the Dutch town of Naarden near Amsterdam has been rescued. Comenius is one of the greatest Czech thinkers in history, known worldwide for his theories of education, but also as a pioneer of Czech Protestantism during the 17th century. To escape the counter-Reformation he spent a great part of his life in exile in the Netherlands and is buried in Naarden. Last year the town decided to close down the museum, devoted to his life and work, for lack of money but

Victims of discrimination in the Czech Republic - be it in the form of race, gender, sexual orientation, or age - should have a better chance of defending their rights in the future. A new anti-discrimination bill has been approved by the government clearly outlining and broadening the definition of what is discrimination.

A variety of musical groups and artists came out to play at a benefit concert celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Czech Foundation for the Protection of animals. Their work ranges from supporting local shelters, advocating for better legislation concerning animal welfare and nature protection to cooperating with other non-profit organizations on an international level. The concert drew together animal lovers of all kinds.